March 31, 2010

After teaching math and science in Bolivia for ten years, Jaime Escalante arrived in California speaking little English. Through much hard work, he earned a degree in mathematics and made it back into the classroom. There, he inspired his inner-city students to pass the A.P. calculus exam. His efforts prompted Hollywood to make the movie Stand and Deliver about his life and dedication as an educator.

Escalante died Tuesday after a battle with cancer at age 79. He was surrounded by his wife, children and grandchildren when he died at his home in Roseville, California. To read more information please visit cnn.com.

This biography has simple text aimed at early independent readers; as well as full-color illustrations. It tells the story of the labor leader Cesar Chavez from his impoverished boyhood to his leadership in the farm worker’s union, which made life better for migrant farm workers.

"This straightforward, factual book gives children a brief biographical sketch of George Ferris and then goes into detail of his famous invention, which is all written in a way that is easy to digest for young readers. "

March 29, 2010

Nana Herron, reviewer on MiniBookBytes.com reviewed Enslow's Sandra Cisneros: Inspiring Latina Author. You can check out the great review here. You can find more information here as well.

An excerpt from the review:

"As part of the Latino Biography Library series, Sandra Cisneros: Inspiring Latina Author will appeal to readers of all ages, but especially to young adults and aspiring writers....The text is clearly written and a pleasure to read. Highly recommended as an excellent biography for kids in grades 6 and up."

Sam Walton was the founder of the tremendously successful retail chain, Wal-Mart. In addition to his business accomplishments, Walton supported various charitable causes, including those of his church, the Presbyterian Church. The Sam and Helen R. Walton Award was created in 1991 when the Waltons made a gift of six million dollars which included an endowment in the amount of three million dollars to provide annual awards to new church developments that are working in creative ways to share the Christian faith in local communities.

Tennessee Williams is one of the most popular and important American playwrights of the twentieth century. He is best known for his "Southern Gothic" style, which often portrayed the struggles of old-world Southerners trying to adjust to modern society. In A Student's Guide to Tennessee Williams, the life and work of Williams are examined, offering accessible insight for young readers. Each work is placed in historical and biographical context, with special emphasis placed on curriculum-related works The Glass Menagerie, A Streetcar Named Desire, and Cat On a Hot Tin Roof, in addition to many other lesser-known works.

March 25, 2010

A fire in the Triangle Shirtwaist Company killed 146 workers, most of them young immigrant women. To read more about this, Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire explains how this horrific fire impacted the national labor reform movement.

To read an historically accurate, fictional account of this tragedy, The Locket follows the working experiences of two Russian-Jewish sisters who were working in this factory on the day of the fire.

ISBN-10: 0-7660-3158-6-->Publication Year: 2009Interest Level: Grades 3-4Page Count: 48Description: Linda Sue Park wrote poems and stories from the time she was a very young girl. Today she is the award-winning author of such children's books as A Single Shard and The Kite Fighters, many of which draw upon her Korean heritage. In an interview with author Michelle Parker-Rock, Park tells her story, including what inspired her to be a writer and how she works. Park also offers advice for kids who want to be writers themselves. Filled with childhood photographs and personal quotes.

ISBN-10: 0-7660-3302-3-->Publication Year: 2009Interest Level: Grades 5-9Page Count: 128Description: Millions of sports fans know the name Danica Patrick—even if they've never watched an indy car race before. As a female driver, Patrick has broken ground for her consistent performances behind the wheel. In 2008, she won the Indy Japan 300, becoming the first woman to win in an Indy Car race.

After a legendary college career at Tennessee, Indianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning has gone on to shatter nearly every passing record in the NFL in his young career. Off the field, Manning’s "PeyBack" Foundation, established in 1999, assists programs that provide opportunities for children at risk.

March 23, 2010

Mark Enslow, president of Enslow Publishers, will be at PLA this week in Portland, Oregon. Come to booth #1050 to see what's new with Enslow!

We are giving away $100 in free books from Enslow to people who have their badge scanned or fill out a ballot at PLA this week. The winner will be chosen on Friday March 26th, and you have to visit our booth to enter!

Widely recognized as the best pure point guard in the league today, Jason Kidd is one of the NBA’s most recognizable stars. After a stellar high school and college career, Kidd made an impact as a pro, earning Rookie of the Year honors, followed by a starting spot in the All-Star Game in just his second professional season. After being traded to the New Jersey Nets in 2001, Kidd immediately turned the franchise around, leading the team to the NBA Finals in his first two seasons there. With Kidd leading the way, the Nets are sure to remain playoff contenders for many seasons to come.

March 19, 2010

Authors Sheila Griffin Llanas and Michelle M. Houle have received a nice review in Booklist (3/15/10) issue of Contemporary American Poetry "Not the End, but the Beginning" (author Sheila Griffin Llanas) and Modern British Poetry "The World Is Never the Same" (author Michelle M. Houle). The review by Carolyn Phelan says:

"...the books' organization and presentation are clear, though the titles' terms of "contemporary"and "modern" are rather broadly applied."

To read the online reviews, you will need a subscription to visit: http://www.booklistonline.com/

Enslow's web site has these description for Contemporary American Poetry: Poet William Stafford wrote, "A poem is not the end, but the beginning, of an excursion." This collection, highlighting American poets born after the beginning of the twentieth century, helps young readers get started on their excursion into understanding poetry. The book includes brief biographies of eleven poets, ranging from Theodore Roethke to Allen Ginsberg, Sylvia Plath, and Billy Collins, along with several poems for each writer. It also introduces the techniques of analysis to deepen readers’ appreciation of poetry.

And for Modern British Poetry: This collection introduces readers to eleven British poets born between 1806 and 1914, including Elizabeth Barrett Browning, Lord Alfred Tennyson, W. B. Yeats, W. H. Auden, and Dylan Thomas. Includes biographical information, historical background, poetry analysis, and several poems by each writer. Helps readers understand poetry and appreciate the statement by Dylan Thomas: "The world is never the same once a good poem has been added to it."

March 18, 2010

This title in the Amazing Animal Defenses series looks at animals that can lose a limb or other body part—and then re-grow it! From newts and salamanders to starfish and earthworms, the ability to regenerate a missing part is truly amazing. Author Susan K. Mitchell explains how these animals can do this, and how it helps them survive.

Enslow's series Poetry Rocks!is organized by cultural traditions and literary periods, presents a wide range of poets in one volume, while also providing analysis, information on that particular type of poetry, and that poet's place in literature. Includes historical information on the literary period, as well as a brief biography of each poet. Students will see that poetry rocks!

"This series offers a comprehensive overview of literary periods . . . These titles will find the most use with teachers looking to guide literary studies."–School Library Journal, Fall 2009, Reprinted with permission from School Library Journal, copyright Cahners Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier, Inc.

"The writing is conversational but intelligent . . . These books would be great supplemental texts for teachers in grades eight through twelve who teach poetry . . ."–VOYA, February 2010

"The book provides a collection of concise, informative introductions to the poets chosen for discussion."–Booklist, October 1, 2009

ISBN-10: 0-7660-3586-7-->Publication Year: 2010Interest Level: Grades 5-upPage Count: 128Description: Dwight Howard is one of the most electrifying young basketball players today, as well as one of the most generous. After reaching the NBA finals in 2009, Howard's team, the Orlando Magic, has never been closer to its first championship. Howard started his own charity in 2004, the Dwight D. Howard Foundation, and often volunteers in the community and hosts his own basketball camps to help kids improve at the game.

March 15, 2010

LaDainian Tomlinson of the San Diego Chargers recently signed a 2-year agreement with the New York Jets. To read more about this trade, click here.

In Enslow's title, LaDainian Tomlinson: All-Pro On and Off the Fieldyou won't only learn about his tremendous NFL career, but also his life wway from the football field. Tomlinson's Touching Lives Foundation finances field trips for young students in an effort to encourage their education and personal growth.

March 12, 2010

Jack Kerouac was born on March 12, 1922. Writer, poet, father of the Beat Generation, man of the road—Jack Kerouac just wanted to tell stories. But his stream-of-consciousness writing style and problems with authority made this a difficult dream to achieve. So Kerouac took to the road, traveling, writing, making friends, and getting by, until it all resulted in the publication of On the Road, making him a literary figure who would not be forgotten.

Karting is a good way to start racing. It can be a family hobby, or it can be the first step in a professional driving career. There are groups for kids of almost any age, experience level, or budget. Nearly half of the kart racers in the United States are under the age of eighteen. Karting is an inexpensive and fun way to join the world of motor sports. Author Alison C. Norville.

March 11, 2010

Speedboat racing is a national sport and all ages of kids and adults can race. Learn about sleek hydroplanes, powerful runabouts, and the stars in the sport. By the early 1900s, powerboat racing had official rules. It became a national sport. You can race a powerboat as soon as you are nine years old. It doesn’t matter if you’re a boy or a girl, tall or short, big or small. Successful boat racers come in all shapes and sizes. Author: Michael Hauenstein.

Motocross is the sport of racing off-road motorcycles. Riders complete several laps around a course of jumps, turns, hills, and bumps. After learning how to ride a dirt bike safely, many kids decide to race. Racing is tough—but with dedication, practice, and patience, anyone can become a dirt bike racer! Author: James Holter.

Superheroes always do their chores . . . or do they? When Molly dons her clever crown and Ben ties on his courageous cape, this duo can accomplish anything. However, even superheroes must sometimes be reminded to fulfill their family responsibilities. Follow Molly through a daring adventure in becoming a responsible family member. Author: Shelly Marshall. Illustrated by Ben Mahan.

Forensic scientists use many different skills to help them solve crimes, including the scientific method. Find out if you have what it takes to be a detective with fun experiments about being a keen observer, breaking codes, collecting evidence, and more. Many experiments include ideas you can use for your science fair, and each chapter ends with a crime for you to solve! Award-winning author Robert Gardner.

March 10, 2010

Nearly 1.6 million Americans own snowmobiles. Every winter, dads, moms, teenagers, and even little kids climb aboard their hot machines for some cold-weather fun. Some go for casual rides on groomed trails across snow-covered fields. Others dare to cut their own trails on mountainsides. Snowmobiling is an outdoor activity for the whole family. Author: Bob Woods.

Superheroes always tell the truth . . . or do they? When Molly puts on her clever crown and Ben ties on his courageous cape, this duo can accomplish anything. However, even superheroes must sometimes be reminded to be honest. Follow Molly and Ben through a daring adventure in honesty.

Think you have what it takes to be a forensic scientist? Use your sleuthing skills and the scientific method to do fun science projects about fingerprints, lip prints, footprints, and more. Many experiments include ideas you can use for your science fair, and each chapter ends with a crime for you to solve! Award-winning author Robert Gardner.

March 09, 2010

Superheroes are never afraid . . . or are they? When Molly dons her clever crown and Ben ties on his courageous cape, this duo can accomplish anything. However, even superheroes must sometimes face their fears. Follow this duo through a daring adventure in becoming better—and more courageous—buddies. Author: Shelly Marshall. Illustrated by Ben Mahan.

Nearly 1.6 million Americans own snowmobiles. Every winter, dads, moms, teenagers, and even little kids climb aboard their hot machines for some cold-weather fun. Some go for casual rides on groomed trails across snow-covered fields. Others dare to cut their own trails on mountainsides. Snowmobiling is an outdoor activity for the whole family. Author: Bob Woods.

Superheroes are always kind . . . or are they? When Molly the Great dons her clever crown and Super Ben ties on his courageous cape, the two can accomplish anything. However, even superheroes must sometimes be reminded to care for others. Follow this duo through daring adventures in becoming better—and more caring—buddies. Author: Shelly Marshall. Illustrated by Ben Mahan.

Forensic scientists use many different skills to help them solve crimes, including the scientific method. Find out if you have what it takes to be a detective with fun experiments about being a keen observer, breaking codes, collecting evidence, and more. Many experiments include ideas you can use for your science fair, and each chapter ends with a crime for you to solve! Award-winning author Robert Gardner.

BMX stands for bicycle motocross. Freestyle BMX is when riders pull tricks on their bikes. What’s the best part of BMX? The races? The tricks? The dirt? All these things are fabulous. But what makes BMX truly special is that it is a family affair. Nobody is left on the sidelines! After all, a racer's age can be anywhere from four to seventy-five! Author Ellen C. Labrecque.

Superheroes are always on time . . . or are they? When Molly dons her clever crown and Ben ties on his courageous cape, this duo can accomplish anything. However, even superheroes must sometimes be reminded to be on time. Follow this duo through a daring adventure in becoming better—and more conscientious—buddies. Author: Shelly Marshall. Illustrated by Ben Mahan.

Think you have what it takes to be a forensic scientist? Use your sleuthing skills to do fun science experiments. Trace evidence is often the most important evidence involved in a crime. Analyze bones and blood spatter patterns, find out if bullets came from a suspect's gun, and more! Many experiments include ideas you can use for your science fair, using the scientific method, and each chapter ends with a crime for you to solve. Award-winning author Robert Gardner.Enslow Publishers, Inc.ISBN-13: 978-0-7660-3248-4Published 2010.48 pages, Full Color.

March 07, 2010

Superheroes never make mistakes . . . or do they? When Molly dons her clever crown and Ben ties on his courageous cape, they can accomplish anything. However, even superheroes need to share. Follow this duo through daring adventures in becoming better—and more generous—buddies. Author: Shelly Marshall. Illustrated by Ben Mahan.

Superheroes never make mistakes . . . or do they? When Molly dons her clever crown and Ben ties on his courageous cape, they can accomplish anything. However, even superpowers are no defense against germs. Follow this duo through daring adventures in becoming better—and cleaner—buddies. Author: Shelly Marshall. Illustrated by Ben Mahan.

Superheroes are always good citizens . . . or are they? When Molly dons her clever crown and Ben ties on his courageous cape, this duo can accomplish anything. However, even superheroes must sometimes be reminded to show good citizenship. Follow Molly through a daring adventure in becoming a better citizen. Author: Shelly Marshall. Illustrated by Ben Mahan. Enslow Publishers, Inc.ISBN-13: 978-0-7660-3519-5Paperback: 978-0-7660-3744-1Grades K-3Publication Date: 201024 pages, Full Color.

March 05, 2010

One of the most popular athletes in the world, soccer star David Beckham's skills are second to none. As he grew into an international superstar, Beckham used his fame to help the sport of soccer grow and make a better future for underprivileged children throughout the world. Author: J. Chris Roselius.

March 04, 2010

In 1848, on a sweltering July day in the small town of Seneca Falls, New York, Elizabeth Cady Stanton and her fellow supporters would make history. They staged the first ever women’s rights convention. The convention passed Resolution 9, which said women should have the right to vote. Although this right would not be recognized in the United States until many years later, Cady Stanton had ignited a revolution. Throughout her life, Cady Stanton worked tirelessly for women’s suffrage. In this biography, author Deborah Kent explores this heroic woman’s passionate pursuit of equal rights and her lasting impact on a revolutionary movement.

After trekking over four thousand miles, Meriwether Lewis, William Clark, and the Corps of Discovery sighted the Pacific Ocean. The two great explorers carved their names on trees to prove that U.S. military officers had reached the Pacific by land. Lewis and Clark failed to achieve their ultimate goal of finding a direct water route across the continent. However, the explorers discovered numerous animal and plant species unknown to western science, mapped uncharted territory, interacted with many American Indian nations, and helped open up the West for American expansion. Author: Kate Robinson.

Ben Roethlisberger followed up his record-setting college career by leading the Pittsburgh Steelers to two Super Bowl titles in his first five years in the NFL. Along the way, he has aided communities through a variety of charitable efforts. Author: Tom Robinson.

March 03, 2010

John Brown hated slavery. On October 16, 1859, he and his armed followers took a violent stand against it. John Brown led his raiding party to the armory in Harpers Ferry, Virginia, with the intent of inciting slave rebellions throughout the South. However, within two days, ten of his men would be killed and Brown was arrested. Although the Harpers Ferry raid failed, John Brown had struck a blow against slavery. A staunch abolitionist his entire life, John Brown gave his life to end an evil that had existed in the United States for over two hundred years. Author: Anne Schraff.

Did Leif Eriksson, a Viking explorer, travel from Greenland to modern day Canada in the 11th century, beating Christopher Columbus by nearly 400 years? Leif Eriksson was a Norse explorer who was probably the first European to land in North America. According to stories from the time, he established a Norse settlement at Vinland, which has been tentatively identified as L'Anse aux Meadows, a Norse site on the northern tip of the island of Newfoundland, Canada. Follow along as author Cheryl L. DeFires tells the story of the Vikings and their legendary leader, Leif Eriksson.